Co-op names general manager of retail arm

The Co-operative Group has promoted Debbie Robinson to general manager for retail brands. She takes charge of all corporate marketing for its 1,100 food stores.

Robinson reports to John Bowes, chief general manager marketing, and will be responsible for own-label brands and the look of the Welcome Co-op convenience stores and the Co-op market town supermarkets. Robinson, who was previously marketing manager retail brands, replaces Wendy Rigley. Rigley becomes director of corporate affairs. There is no change to Ged Carter’s role as general manager retail marketing. He remains responsible for advertising and in store communications.

The Co-op Group, formed from the members of the Co-operative Wholesale Society and Co-operative Retail Services, is thought to be preparing to buy Alldays, the debt-laden convenience store operator with 600 outlets, for about &£150m.

It is understood the group was considering buying Budgens earlier this year, but the store chain was taken over by Irish food wholesaler Musgrave. It is understood the group is keen to expand through acquisition.

The Co-operative Group is expected to unveil strong first-half growth in sales and profits today (Wednesday), boosted by a good performance at its convenience stores.

You should read this

The Financial Services Authority has fined financial advisory company Chase de Vere &£156,000 for a misleading promotion that appeared in 2 million national newspapers and was mailed to 236,000 consumers. The regulator believes consumers would not have understood the risky nature of the investment products being promoted.

NOT REGISTERED? IT'S FREE, QUICK AND EASY!

Already a member?

Sign in

Register and receive the best content from the only UK title 100% dedicated to serving marketers' needs.

We’ll ask you just a few questions about what you do and where you work. The more we know about our visitors, the better and more relevant content we can provide for them. And, yes, knowing our audience better helps us find commercial partners too. Don't worry, we won't share your information with other parties, unless you give us permission to do so.

THE BEST CONTENT

Our award winning editorial team (PPA Digital Brand of the Year) ask the big questions about the biggest issues on everything from strategy through to execution to help you navigate the fast moving modern marketing landscape.

THE BIGGEST ISSUES

From the opportunities and challenges of emerging technology to the need for greater effectiveness, from the challenge of measurement to building a marketing team fit for the future, we are your guide.

PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Information, inspiration and advice from the marketing world and beyond that will help you develop as a marketer and as a leader.

Type anything and hit “enter”

Sign in

Not registered yet?

Register and receive the best content from the only UK title 100% dedicated to serving marketers' needs.

We’ll ask you just a few questions about what you do and where you work. The more we know about our visitors, the better and more relevant content we can provide for them. And, yes, knowing our audience better helps us find commercial partners too. Don't worry, we won't share your information with other parties, unless you give us permission to do so.